Why DTF Ink Clog Print Head and How to Solve Clogging Problem

Why Print Head Clogging Occur?

Print head clogging is the main factor affecting the DTF transfer printing quality and yield. According to Hongsam's 25-year experience in the inkjet printing area, the followings are several major factors that can easily cause print head clogging:

1. Ink quality

Inferior quality ink cannot be used. Ink that is too thick or contains impurities will clog the print head.

2.Ink drying

When the ink dries prematurely in the print head, it will affect the normal ink jetting.

3.lack of maintenance

DTF printing machines is precision machines and require regular maintenance to keep the machine running in good condition. Failure to clean the print head or replace the ink cartridge promptly can cause debris and dried ink to accumulate in the print heads, causing clogging.

4.Environmental factors

When the temperature is too high and the humidity is too low, the ink will dry too quickly, causing the nozzle holes to be blocked and the ink may break. It may also cause the ink itself to evaporate, eventually causing its viscosity to become high and clogging the nozzle. Maintain a workshop humidity of 40%-80% and temperature of 15-30°C to prevent ink drying on the nozzle surface.

5. Ink system problems

Problems with the ink system can also cause clogged nozzles. For example, a clogged filter or malfunctioning pump can prevent ink from flowing through the print head.

How to prevent print head clogging

1. Use high quality DTF ink

Please use high quality ink that is compatible with your DTF printer.

2. Clean the print head regularly

It is recommended to clean the print head once a week. When cleaning, use a special cleaning solution or distilled water for white ink heat transfer machines, and follow the machine maintenance instructions to do the cleaning work.

3. Use a humidifier

Printing under a working environment humidity between 40% and 60% is best. A humidifier can be used to maintain ideal humidity levels in the room, which can effectively prevent the ink from drying out too quickly.

Will white ink affect the use of print head?

YES!

1. Print head clogged

White ink is thicker and heavier than other inks and can easily cause print head clogging. As the white ink dries in the head, it hardens and prevents other ink from flowing through.

2. Print head damaged

White ink causes greater wear and tear on the printhead due to its thickness and weight. Over time, damage to the print head may occur.

3. Mixed ink

White ink sometimes mixes with other inks in the ink system, causing color contamination and affecting printing quality.

Recommendated DTF Ink that Do Not Clog the Printheads

HONGSAM DTF ink has passed the ECO PASSPORT by OEKO-TEX^® and GOTS, was successfully selected in "10th Batch of Advanced Technology Recommendations for Energy Saving and Emission Reduction by China Dyeing and Printing Association" in 2016, suitable for printing on cotton, artificial cotton, nylon, polyester cotton, blended fabrics, etc. Also, HONGSAM DTF ink has excellent color fastness.

Comparision between HONGSAM Premium DTF ink and Other Standard/Low-Cost Ink